VFL: Delaney's first step
Cam Delaney will play his first game for the season on Saturday.
Likely to start with restricted game-time on the comeback trail from a foot injury, the Kangaroos' defender won't be given an easy introduction, likely to line up on Jack Fitzpatrick.
A Melbourne-listed player, Fitzpatrick has a four-goal haul to his name at AFL level, providing Delaney with a stern test on his return.
The Roosters are looking for their fifth consecutive win, a remarkable turnaround after losing the first four games of the season. In the event of a victory, it could move the side a game clear inside the top eight.
For that to happen, a lot will fall on the capable shoulders of Ben Jacobs. In a purple patch of form after 39 disposals and 16 clearances against Box Hill, a similar performance from the midfielder will likely go a long way towards a victory. Alongside him in close will be Trent Dumont, who had 11 clearances of his own against the Hawks.
Werribee will be in action the following day against Essendon at Avalon Airport Oval. The Tigers will have their largest Kangaroos' contingent of the year; the return of Majak Daw, Sam Wright and Scott McMahon to the side gives them 10 North-listed players.
The forward-line at Werribee looks a formidable one. With Ben Brown, Mason Wood, former Roo Ben Warren and Daw all roaming inside the 50, a fair argument could be made for it to be considered the best front six in the entire VFL.
Daw and Brown are also able to give Daniel Currie a hand in the ruck, forming a fearsome trio at stoppages and centre bounces.
In Sam Wright, Taylor Hine and McMahon, North also forms a fair contingent of the Werribee defence.
Wright will likely take up his role off half-back and provide rebound, with Hine taking the most dangerous opposition small-forward. McMahon is often referred to as the leader of the back half, with his leadership providing a valuable boost.
Werribee will be looking to bounce back from a last-start loss to Williamstown.
North Ballarat v Casey Scorpions
Saturday 14th June, 2:00pm
Eureka Stadium
Probable North-listed players
- Cam Delaney
- Trent Dumont
- Ben Jacobs
- Brad McKenzie
- Eric Wallace
- Max Warren
- Mitch Wilkins
Werribee v Essendon
Sunday 15th June, 1:00pm
Avalon Airport Oval
Probable North-listed players
- Ben Brown
- Daniel Currie
- Majak Daw
- Kieran Harper
- Taylor Hine
- Tim McGenniss
- Scott McMahon
- Kayne Turner
- Mason Wood
- Sam Wright